Delicious Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito

Let me tell you, weeknight dinners at our house can sometimes feel like a culinary tightrope walk. Balancing flavor, ease, and something the whole family will actually eat? It’s a challenge! That’s why discovering this Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito recipe felt like striking gold. From the first smoky, tangy bite, it was a unanimous hit. Even my notoriously picky eaters devoured them, declaring them “way better than takeout!” The grilled chicken is incredibly juicy and flavorful, thanks to a simple yet brilliant marinade, and that chipotle ranch? Forget about it – creamy, spicy, and utterly addictive. This isn’t just a burrito; it’s a flavor explosion wrapped in a warm tortilla, and it’s become a regular feature on our dinner table. If you’re looking for a meal that’s both exciting and easy to make, look no further. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I can’t wait to share all the delicious details with you.

Ingredients for Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to create these mouthwatering burritos, along with a brief description of each:

• Chicken Breasts: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The protein powerhouse of our burrito, providing a lean and satisfying base.
• Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce: 2-3 chipotle peppers + 1 tbsp adobo sauce – These bring the signature smoky heat and depth of flavor that makes this burrito truly special. Adjust the amount for your preferred spice level.
• Ranch Dressing: 1 cup mayonnaise-based ranch dressing – The creamy, tangy foundation of our delicious chipotle ranch sauce. Look for a good quality ranch for the best flavor.
• Lime Juice: 2 limes, juiced – Fresh lime juice adds a bright, citrusy zing that balances the smoky heat and creamy ranch.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – Used for both the marinade and grilling, adding richness and preventing sticking.
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the savory flavor of the chicken and marinade.
• Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon onion powder – Complements the garlic powder, adding another layer of savory depth.
• Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Boosts the smoky flavor profile and adds a beautiful color to the chicken.
• Cumin: 1 teaspoon ground cumin – Provides a warm, earthy note that pairs perfectly with chipotle and other Southwestern flavors.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste – Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, or to taste – Adds a touch of spice and depth.
• Large Flour Tortillas: 8-10 large flour tortillas – The perfect vessel to wrap up all the delicious fillings. Choose burrito-size tortillas for easy rolling.
• Cooked Rice: 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown) – A classic burrito filler, adding substance and texture. Cilantro lime rice is especially delicious.
• Black Beans or Pinto Beans: 1 (15-ounce) can, rinsed and drained – Another hearty and flavorful burrito staple, adding protein and fiber.
• Shredded Cheese: 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a blend) – Melty, cheesy goodness that binds all the ingredients together.
• Optional Toppings: Avocado slices, salsa, sour cream, chopped cilantro, pickled onions, jalapeños – Customize your burrito to your heart’s content with your favorite toppings!

Instructions: Crafting Your Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito Masterpiece

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your own batch of irresistible Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos:

1. Prepare the Chipotle Ranch Marinade: In a blender or food processor, combine the ranch dressing, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (start with 2 peppers and add more for extra heat), adobo sauce, lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more chipotle for heat or lime juice for tanginess.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour about ¾ cup of the chipotle ranch marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Reserve the remaining marinade for later use as a sauce. Seal the bag or cover the dish and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or ideally for 2-4 hours for maximum flavor infusion. Longer marinating times will result in more tender and flavorful chicken.
3. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C).
4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and discard the marinade. Place the chicken on the preheated grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Grill marks are a bonus for added flavor and visual appeal! Avoid overcrowding the grill; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
5. Rest and Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken. After resting, shred the chicken using two forks.
6. Warm the Tortillas: While the chicken is resting, warm the tortillas. You can do this in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 15-20 seconds per side, in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel for about 30 seconds, or directly over a gas stovetop flame for a few seconds per side (be careful not to burn them!). Warming the tortillas makes them more pliable and prevents them from cracking when you roll the burritos.
7. Assemble the Burritos: Lay out a warm tortilla and spread a spoonful of the reserved chipotle ranch sauce (or the remaining marinade) in the center. Layer with cooked rice, black beans or pinto beans, shredded cheese, and a generous portion of shredded grilled chicken.
8. Roll the Burritos: To roll the burrito, fold in the sides of the tortilla towards the center, then bring the bottom edge up and over the filling, tucking it in tightly. Continue rolling tightly until the burrito is sealed. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and fillings.
9. Optional: Sear the Burritos (for extra crispiness): For an extra touch of deliciousness and a slightly crispy exterior, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Place the assembled burritos seam-side down in the hot skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until lightly golden brown and crispy.
10. Serve and Enjoy!: Serve your delicious Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos immediately while warm. Offer a side of extra chipotle ranch sauce, salsa, sour cream, guacamole, or any of your favorite burrito toppings for customization.

Nutrition Facts: A Flavorful and Balanced Meal

(Estimated nutrition facts are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Based on 1 burrito per serving and using white rice and cheddar cheese.)

• Servings: 8-10 burritos
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 650-750 kcal
• Protein: 45-55g
• Sodium: 800-1000mg (can vary based on ranch dressing and cheese)

Note: This is an estimated nutritional breakdown. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with specific ingredient brands and quantities. You can also adjust ingredients (e.g., use brown rice, lower-fat cheese, less ranch) to modify the nutritional profile.

Preparation Time: From Prep to Plate in Under an Hour

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (includes making marinade and prepping ingredients)
• Marinating Time: 30 minutes to 4 hours (optional, but recommended for flavor)
• Cook Time: 20 minutes (grilling chicken and warming tortillas)
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (including minimum marinating time) or approximately 40 minutes if marinating is skipped.

This recipe is wonderfully efficient for a flavorful and satisfying meal, perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

How to Serve Your Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos

These burritos are delicious on their own, but here are some fantastic ways to elevate your serving experience:

• Classic Burrito Plating: Serve each burrito on a plate garnished with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
• Burrito Bowls: For a lighter option, deconstruct the burrito into a bowl! Serve the grilled chicken, rice, beans, cheese, and chipotle ranch sauce over a bed of lettuce or mixed greens. Top with your favorite burrito toppings.
• Fiesta Feast: Create a burrito bar! Set out all the components – grilled chicken, rice, beans, cheese, warmed tortillas, chipotle ranch sauce, and a variety of toppings like salsa, avocado, pickled onions, jalapeños, and sour cream. Let everyone customize their own burritos.
• Side Dishes: Complement your burritos with delicious side dishes:
  • Mexican Rice: A classic and flavorful accompaniment.
  • Corn Salad: A refreshing and vibrant salad to balance the richness of the burrito.
  • Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: Perfect for snacking while you prepare the burritos and a great side to enjoy with the meal.
  • Simple Green Salad: A light and healthy side to balance the heartiness of the burrito.
  • Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob with cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime – a true Mexican street food delight.
• Beverage Pairings: Enjoy your burritos with:
  • Mexican Beer: A classic pairing, especially a light lager or a Mexican-style cerveza.
  • Margaritas: A festive and flavorful choice.
  • Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing non-alcoholic options.
  • Horchata: A creamy rice milk drink with cinnamon, a traditional Mexican beverage.

Additional Tips for Burrito Perfection

Here are 8 expert tips to take your Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos to the next level:

1. Spice it Up (or Tone it Down): Control the heat by adjusting the number of chipotle peppers and adobo sauce. For a milder flavor, use only 1-2 peppers or remove some of the seeds. For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade or include a finely diced jalapeño in your burrito fillings.
2. Marinade Magic: Don’t skimp on the marinating time! Even 30 minutes makes a difference, but allowing the chicken to marinate for 2-4 hours (or even overnight in the refrigerator) will result in significantly more tender and flavorful chicken.
3. Grilled Veggies: Elevate your burritos by adding grilled vegetables! Bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or corn on the cob are delicious grilled and added to the burrito filling. Toss them with a little olive oil and seasoning before grilling alongside the chicken.
4. Rice Variety: Experiment with different types of rice. Cilantro lime rice is a fantastic choice that complements the flavors perfectly. Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and more fiber. You could even try quinoa for a protein-packed alternative.
5. Bean Bonanza: Black beans and pinto beans are classic, but consider other bean options like refried beans for a creamier texture or white beans for a different flavor profile.
6. Cheese Choices: Monterey Jack cheese melts beautifully and has a mild flavor. Cheddar adds a sharper, more classic cheese flavor. Pepper jack cheese will kick up the spice. A blend of cheeses provides a more complex flavor.
7. Make-Ahead Marvel: You can prepare the grilled chicken and chipotle ranch sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble the burritos just before serving for the best texture.
8. Freezer-Friendly Burritos: These burritos are freezer-friendly! Assemble and roll the burritos, then wrap each tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or microwave on a low setting until thawed, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos

Here are 8 common questions and answers to help you make the perfect Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos:

Q1: Can I make this recipe without a grill?
A: Absolutely! You can use a grill pan on your stovetop to achieve similar grill marks and flavor. Alternatively, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. Pan-frying the chicken in a skillet is also an option.

Q2: How can I make the chipotle ranch sauce less spicy?
A: Start with just 1 chipotle pepper and taste. You can always add more for heat. Removing the seeds and membranes from the chipotle peppers will also reduce the spice level. Alternatively, use chipotle powder instead of peppers for milder smoky flavor control.

Q3: Can I use a different type of dressing instead of ranch?
A: While ranch dressing is key to the signature flavor of this recipe, you could experiment with other creamy dressings like a creamy cilantro lime dressing or even a creamy avocado dressing. However, the flavor profile will be different.

Q4: What are some good vegetarian substitutions for the chicken?
A: Grilled or roasted portobello mushrooms, seasoned and grilled tofu, or black beans and corn are excellent vegetarian alternatives. You can also use a plant-based chicken substitute.

Q5: How do I prevent my burritos from getting soggy?
A: Avoid overfilling the burritos, as too much filling can make them soggy. Also, make sure to drain any excess liquid from your fillings (like beans or salsa). Warming the tortillas before assembling also helps create a slight barrier against moisture. If making ahead, consider searing the burritos to create a crispier exterior that holds up better.

Q6: Can I make the chipotle ranch sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes! The chipotle ranch sauce can be made up to 3-4 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. In fact, making it ahead allows the flavors to meld together even more beautifully.

Q7: What are some other toppings I can add to my burritos?
A: The possibilities are endless! Consider adding: pico de gallo, roasted corn salsa, shredded lettuce, guacamole, sour cream, pickled jalapeños, pickled red onions, crumbled cotija cheese, hot sauce, or a drizzle of lime crema.

Q8: How long do leftover burritos last?
A: Leftover burritos, stored properly in the refrigerator, will last for 3-4 days. Reheat them thoroughly before eating. For longer storage, freeze them as described in tip #8.

This Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito recipe is truly a winner – flavorful, versatile, and relatively easy to make. It’s a fantastic meal for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week. Give it a try, and I guarantee it will become a new favorite in your kitchen too!

Print